FSSAI Urges Food Vendors and Consumers to Stop Using Newspapers for Food Packaging
Introduction: FSSAI’s Warning on Newspaper Use in Food Packaging
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a strong caution to food vendors and consumers, urging them to immediately refrain from using newspapers for packing, serving, and storing food. Recognizing the significant health risks associated with this practice, FSSAI is working closely with state food authorities to enforce regulations and ensure food safety across the country.
Health Risks and Concerns Related to Newspaper Use
FSSAI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) G Kamala Vardhana Rao has expressed deep concerns regarding the use of newspapers for wrapping and packaging food. He specifically highlights the detrimental effects of the ink used in newspapers, which contains bioactive materials with known negative health impacts. By emphasizing these concerns, FSSAI draws attention to the potential contamination and health issues that can arise from ingesting these substances.
Furthermore, printing inks often contain chemicals such as lead and heavy metals that can leach into the food over time, posing serious long-term health risks. Moreover, newspapers are susceptible to contamination by bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens during distribution, further increasing the potential for foodborne illnesses.
Strict Regulations and Prohibition
To address this issue, FSSAI has implemented the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018, which strictly prohibits the use of newspapers or similar materials for wrapping, covering, serving, or absorbing excess oil from fried food items. It is crucial that food vendors abide by these regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of their customers.
Prioritizing Food Safety and Promoting Safe Alternatives
Emphasizing the paramount importance of food safety, CEO Rao appeals to all food vendors to adopt responsible packaging practices that prioritize the well-being of their customers. By discouraging the use of newspapers as food packaging material and promoting safe alternatives, FSSAI reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the safety of the nation’s food supply.
Urging Immediate Discontinuation and Adoption of Safe Packaging Materials
FSSAI calls upon consumers, food vendors, and all stakeholders nationwide to immediately discontinue the use of newspapers for food packaging. Instead, it is strongly recommended to utilize safe and approved food packaging materials, along with food-grade containers, to safeguard the safety and well-being of consumers.
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